In “a tough budget year,” or any year for that matter, it clearly makes sense to pass a budget that will save taxpayer money and maintain revenue streams by keeping people working who pay taxes.

“Any budget cut to services for the disabled will result in fewer people with disabilities and family members being able to work and pay taxes, and more people will be institutionalized at a much higher taxpayer expense. We want the in-home assistance we need to live productive lives,” says Linda Anthony, Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania. “Delivering those same services in our homes is typically less than half the cost of placing a person in an institutional care facility. Limiting our options is morally wrong and fiscally irresponsible.”

Pennsylvania’s final budget must include at least the amounts that the Governor originally recommended in February 09 for mental retardation, autism, attendant care, services to people with disabilities and long term care — and at least level funding for other key programs. There should be no budget cuts to the mental health system and the $3 million decrease recommended by the Governor should be restored.